***Confidence Is the Name of the Game in Securing the Job

The last thing some people think about when heading out the door for a job interview is confidence. Too often, there is such trepidation and fear, that their vision lacks this one thing the employer is looking for.

Why should someone hire you if you do not look and sound confident? Trust me, some of your competition is definitely not lacking in this department. By no means do I suggest overconfidence however. Sounding too assured of yourself is just as bad as the opposite extreme.

So how do you project confidence when you are ‘dying a thousand deaths?’ By believing in yourself.

If you do not believe in your abilities to perform the job and be an asset to the company, why should anyone else?

If a prospective employer has seen your resume and you have been called for an interview, then you have succeeded in overcoming your first hurdle in seeking employment. You have just gotten through the door. What this means is that someone is interested in meeting and talking with you because you have the basic qualifications; i.e. education and/or experience.
That obstacle, alone, should build your confidence.

Your next hurdle is the actual meeting and that means facing your prospective employer with confidence. Not everyone who sent in a resume was called for an interview. You were and possibly a number of other candidates. If the person doing the hiring does not see and hear your confidence, what are the chances that he/she will select you among others who may display more assuredness?

If you have not recorded yourself in a mock interview, then I suggest you make that a priority. Seeing and hearing yourself on a recording is one of the best tools for improving your interview skills because you will learn much about yourself in the process. If you find your voice unpleasant, consider voice training. The benefits you will derive from this type of training are invaluable and will serve you not only in your interview but for the rest of your life as well. In the process, you will also learn the best techniques for controlling your nervousness so that it is not heard in your voice nor seen in your facial expression and body language.

Projecting confidence is much easier than you think. If you know that you have the ability to handle the requirements of the job, if you have practiced answering questions and feel comfortable with your responses, then you are prepared. Believe in yourself and your prospective employer will see your confidence as well.